LEWISTON — Andrew Hutchins, a 20-year-old Army specialist with local ties has died in Afghanistan.

Hutchins was killed Monday while serving as a military policeman with the Army’s 101st Airborne Division from Fort Campbell, Ky.

His father lives in Leeds.

Spc. Hutchins’ mother lives in Waltham. His wife plans to stay in Maine with her mother until Spc. Hutchins’ funeral.

“As Veterans Day approaches, we are painfully reminded that our country remains at war, and that our men and women in uniform are still called to duty for their country,” Gov. Baldacci said Tuesday in a prepared statement. “Spc. Hutchins’ death is a terrible tragedy for his family and all who knew him. We honor his sacrifice and his memory, and will keep his wife and family in our prayers.”

Baldacci spoke with members Hutchins’ family Tuesday morning.

“His father told me that Spc. Hutchins was wounded earlier, but he wanted to return to Afghanistan to be with his buddies,” Baldacci said. “Spc. Hutchins is a hero and deserves our gratitude.”

Spc. Hutchins is the second person this month with Maine ties killed in Afghanistan. Marine First Lt. James R. Zimmerman, 25, died Nov. 2. A memorial service is planned for Lt. Zimmerman on Nov. 11 in Houlton.